Socio-technical challenges for geological disposal of radioactive waste

One of the biggest challenges for implementing geological disposal lies in adapting the generic concept to the real world environment and in establishing and maintaining a long-term sustainable relationship between the waste management system and its natural and social environment. The implementation is therefore not only a technical challenge but requires the consideration of socio-political aspects as well.

InSOTEC (International Socio-Technical Challenges for implementing geological disposal ) is a the three-year research project within the Seventh Euratom Framework Programme (FP7), in which the Oeko-Institut works together with several international partners to identify those socio-technical challenges. The aim of the research project is to generate a better understanding of the complex interplay between the technical and the social in radioactive waste management, and in particular in the implementation of geological disposal. For this several case studies will be analysed. Another aim is to advise and assist scientists and technological experts to develop the tools and the ability to communicate about their work and to engage with stakeholders on technical and safety issues.

InSOTEC contributes to include research on social aspects of science and technology in the field of radioactive waste management and on the technical translation of socio-political requirements.

For further information about the project and our partners please refer to: www.insotec.eu

Contact

Beate Kallenbach-Herbert
Head of Nuclear Engineering & Facility Safety Division
Oeko-Institut e.V., Darmstadt office
Tel: +49 6151 8191-122
Email contact

Anne Minhans
Researcher, Nuclear Engineering & Facility Safety Division
Oeko-Institut e.V., Darmstadt office
Tel: +49 6151 8191-150
Email contact